In this post, you'll learn about the most popular Italian musical terms and their definitions. This is by no means a comprehensive list, but I tried to include all the terms you might find in beginner and intermediate violin music.

Tempo

Tempo is the Italian word for speed. The following markings will be indicated at the beginning of the piece, and they are listed from slowest to fastest.

Tempo changes

The following terms indicate a change in speed.

Dynamics

The following musical terms indicate the volume at which you should play. They are listed in order from soft to loud.

Dynamic changes

The following musical terms indicate a change in volume.

Special techniques

Musical moods

These terms indicate the character in which pieces or passages should be played.

Repeats

Ornaments

Accents